© Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports
One critical question for the Milwaukee Bucks as the postseason looms: Can Khris Middleton get healthy?
The talk surrounding the Milwaukee Bucks has somewhat died down lately, drowned out by the noise of their six-game winning streak after the All-Star break. However, a huge question that remains unanswered is the status of All-Star wingman Khris Middleton, who has been sidelined since early February due to an ankle sprain.
The latest injury report the Bucks submitted for Wednesday's game against the Golden State Warriors shows that Middleton will remain out. This ultimately begs the question: Will Khris Middleton be able to stay healthy in time for the playoffs?
Middleton's health will be key for the Bucks
Khris is no longer the player he was before he hurt his knee in the 2022 NBA Playoffs. After an injury-riddled season last year, during which he played in only 33 games, he has again been limited, playing in just 43 games this season. He has yet to return from the ankle sprain he suffered when he landed on Kevin Durant's foot while attempting a jumper.
And while Bucks coach Doc Rivers has hinted of an imminent return, it is still uncertain when that will be. According to Stephen Noh of the Sporting News, getting clarity on Middleton's status will be crucial for the Bucks as they push for the playoffs.
"He was their second-best player during their title run, and he hasn't been able to return to that same level. He's lost two or three steps defensively, but he's still been a good offensive player when he's been on the floor," Noh wrote.
"That health part has been a major component for Middleton over the past few years. He's dealt with back, knee, wrist and ankle injuries. The Bucks tried to keep him on a minutes limit for much of the year, but he's still been banged up."
Bucks need depth
Outside of Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks don't have any playmakers and shotcreators. Middleton is a 12-year veteran who can create his shot and make plays for others as well. Getting him close to or at peak health come the postseason may be the key to a deep playoff run.
"This team isn't going anywhere in the playoffs if they can't get Middleton to play at least 30 minutes per game. They don't have the depth or firepower to replace him on the rest of the roster. That is looking like a very dicey proposition right now," Noh added.
